Weirton Fun Map unveiled

July 28, 2013

WEIRTON - A sneak peek at an advance copy of the newest Fun Map produced by The Weirton Daily Times and the Herald-Star drew giggles and a lot of finger pointing from Amber Nest and Patty Soplinski, employees of the Weirton Area Chamber of Commerce.

"This is so great," Nest said as they ticked off the faces and places brought to life on the 36-inch-by-24-inch Weirton Fun Map, the latest in a series of custom community snapshots designed by local artist Lillian Brue.

"Look at the flowers on top of McCauslen's (Any Occasion Florist)," Soplinski said. "That's the detail you have to look for."

Article Photos

Patty Soplinski, left, members services/programs coordinator of the Weirton Area Chamber of Commerce, and Amber Nest, chamber office manager, get an early look at the new Weirton Fun Map, which will be released this week. -- Linda Harris

Brue has worked her graphic magic on more than 80 community landmarks and more than 45 "characters" from the Weirton, New Cumberland and Chester communities, infusing her work with a sense of the personality and humor that flavor the community.

"You can't help but smile when you look at Lillian's work," said Alex Marshall, publisher of the Herald-Star and the Weirton Daily Times. "Her Weirton Fun Map is light-hearted and engaging, and the perfect vehicle for businesses and institutions to promote themselves and their community."

Framed copies of the map will be delivered Monday to the community leaders, businesses and institutions that are depicted on it. Limited copies will be available at participating businesses. Additional copies will be available for $1 at the Herald-Star/Weirton Daily Times offices, 401 Herald Square, Steubenville, while supplies last.

An online version will be available soon, allowing consumers to point their mouse at one of the many businesses or institutions on the map to find out more about it.

"It's a professional piece full of humor and fun," said Brenda Mull, president of the Weirton Area Chamber of Commerce. "You're supposed to have fun in business, and she characterized the businesses and people really well. I think she put a lot of time and love into it."

Ross Gallabrese, executive editor of the Herald-Star and The Weirton Daily Times, said the map is a true conversation piece.

"Our fun map series has been extremely popular," he said. "The Weirton edition is a great continuation and really shows off some of the great businesses that serve the community."

Craig Howell, managing editor of the Daily Times, agreed, noting there are many long-standing Weirton area landmarks as well as a few more recent additions to the local business community included.

"Our series of Fun Maps has received a great response from our area communities," Howell said. "I can't wait to see the response from our Weirton residents and look forward to what will come in the future."

A fun map featuring Brooke County businesses and institutions is in the works, Marshall said.